Cuba’s Parallel Gas Market: In Havana, propane buyers are turning to dollar-only online sales that piggyback on the state system, highlighting how power cuts and delivery delays are pushing households to new workarounds. Cuba Food Control at the UN: Food Monitor filed a complaint accusing Gaesa of monopolizing food resources and limiting access, arguing the military-linked group blocks production and extracts hard currency. Cuba Water Crisis: Officials warn running-water problems are worsening as sanctions choke financing and suppliers for hydraulic infrastructure. Mexico Electoral Rule Change: Mexico’s lower house approved a constitutional amendment to nullify elections over foreign interference, a move critics say could fuel new challenges to results. Mexico-US Politics and Cartels: US indictments of top Mexican officials tied to cartel protection continue to rattle Mexico’s political class. Regional Crime Pact: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru signed a Santiago agreement to coordinate against transnational organized crime. Brazil Narco-Terror Designations: The US plans to label Brazil’s PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist groups, a step Brazil calls undue political interference. Venezuela Reconciliation Drive: Delcy Rodríguez met private business leaders under a state “peace and coexistence” program, touting amnesty results and ongoing dialogue. Tourism Boost Watch: New WTTC data shows Mexico outpacing the US and Canada in 2025 travel spending and arrivals, with Central and South America forecast to grow faster than the global average in 2026. Rio Creative Industry Funding: Rio de Janeiro announced a $45M plan to expand film, TV, and cultural funding through 2028.